AKRON, OH -- Goodyear and the United Steelworkers will return to the negotiating table in Cincinnati today, both sides confirmed over the weekend.

It will mark the first formal talks between the two sides since USW workers hit the picket line on Oct. 5 at 16 Goodyear plants in North America.

Last week, Goodyear published information on its most current offer to the Steelworkers, and indicated that it was ready to get back to negotiating. While acknowledging the tiremaker’s move back to formal talks, the USW, however, did not immediately commit to returning to the bargaining table until Saturday.

The USW said it remains committed to refusing any Goodyear move to close plants or underfund retiree medical benefits. Goodyear, though, said it needs a more competitive labor deal and to reduce costs.